Australian Government Data - Updated 2026

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insurance Australia

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Cover type
Hospital tier
Cover for
Your income Affects MLS tax
Preferred excess
Medicare Levy Surcharge applies at your income level. Singles over $101,000 pay an extra 1% of income in tax without eligible hospital cover. Taking out at least a Basic tier policy removes this surcharge. Source: ATO 2025-26.
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Prices shown: NSW, single, $500 excess. Select up to 3 policies to compare side by side.

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About the funds

Australia's major health insurers

Common questions

Private health insurance FAQs

Do I need private health insurance?

Singles earning over $101,000 (families over $202,000) pay the Medicare Levy Surcharge without eligible hospital cover. This is an extra 1% to 1.5% of income at tax time. Hospital cover also lets you avoid public waitlists and choose your own specialist. Source: ATO 2025-26.

What is Lifetime Health Cover loading?

If you do not take out hospital cover before 1 July following your 31st birthday, a 2% loading is added to your premium for every year you delayed, up to a maximum of 70%. Taking out cover before 31 avoids this permanently.

Can I switch without re-serving waiting periods?

Yes. Switching to an equivalent or lower cover level does not restart waiting periods in most cases. Your new insurer usually handles the transfer. Always confirm with both funds before cancelling existing cover.

What does "Restricted" mean?

Restricted means the fund pays only the minimum government-set benefit toward that category. If treated in a private hospital you may face significant out-of-pocket costs. "Included" means full private hospital benefits apply.

What is extras cover?

Extras covers out-of-hospital services like dental, optical, physio, chiro, and psychology. Extras-only cover does not exempt you from the Medicare Levy Surcharge. You need eligible hospital cover for that.

Is this site independent?

Yes. AusHealthCover presents factual, government-sourced information. We may earn a referral commission if you purchase through our links at no extra cost to you. This is general information only, not personal financial advice.

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